Enjoy a day out bird watching at Charca de Suárez in Motril. This is the most important wetland on the coast of Granada, with over 160 species of birds, as well as wildlife and numerous plants and vegetation. This 15.6 hectares (almost 40 acres) environmental site has plans to double in the future, which is critical for the endangered bird species in the area and their survival. This is the ideal refuge for many species in addition to a strategic location for migration.

Charca de Suárez Wetlands

The importance of wetlands and wildlife is critical and everything we can do to help makes all of the difference. These wetlands are on the route for migratory birds between Europe to Africa, so there are many to see.

Wetlands In The Vega Of Motril

The location of Charca de Suárez is in the Vega of Motril, just across from the beach. There are beautiful mountain views as well as stunning views of the vega (grassy plain).

There are several lakes and lagoons to walk around as well to spot all of the wildlife. With several paths and routes to follow within the wetlands, you are sure to enjoy your leisurely walk. Along the paths, there are many informational signs explaining the history, names of vegetation and wildlife. In addition, there are route markers guiding you along the path and letting you know the distance.

Bird Watching

Bird watching, or birding, is the observation of birds as a recreational activity. It can be done with the naked eye, through a visual enhancement device like binoculars, telescopes, and camera zoom lenses, or by simply listening for bird sounds.

Most of the birds are easily seen on the lakes or in the trees, but there are some which prefer to hide out or perhaps flee with loud noises. It is best to keep things quiet when visiting the wetlands, to be sure you can see as many species as possible. There are several huts for bird watching and observation, which is perfect for hiding out and keeping a low profile.

Spain Coastal Wetlands

It isn’t just about the birds! There is so much wildlife to discover and enjoy. You should be on the lookout for frogs, foxes, chameleon, bats, dragonflies, snakes, turtles, fish and more!

There is even a butterfly hut, which you can experience seasonally.

Volunteer Opportunities

Would you like to help the environment and contribute to keeping the wetlands looking beautiful? Please contact Charca de Suárez for any volunteer opportunities, via WhatsApp or call 958 048 046 – 618 217 508 – 682 345 666.

Charca de Suárez Location

To access the wetland of the Charca de Suárez, go in direction to Motril beach, following a path called Pelaillo until you find the path which leads to the Charca de Suárez on the right.

Camino Peladillo, 17, 18613 Motril, Granada
As you pass Hotel Elba, it is about 1 block east on your right. It is a small pedestrian entrance.
Link to map location and here are the GPS data points:
36°43’18.53″N
3°32’31.14″O

Download the complete information in Spanish and English, with maps, contact information, as well as details about the birds, animals, flora, and fauna at the wetland site.

There is also a facebook group for you to look around and ask questions.

More resources and information about the wetlands

Motril wetlands (en español)

Granada tourism website pointing out the nature reserve and the Medio Ambiente Motril.

Birdwatching Spain

Birding in Spain – Read more.

Bird watching in Spain, the bridge between Europe and Africa.

Junta de Andalucia resources and references to bird watching.

Top bird watching and wildlife tours in Spain, more info.

The seasons to go birding in Spain, detailing each month.

Birding holidays in Spain and Costa del Sol, more info.

Wetlands in Europe

The European Environment Agency provides a great deal of information about the environmental locations within Spain and Europe.
Read more here.

UNESCO International provides information regarding wetlands, agricultural landscapes, read more info.

Birding Tools & Gear

Things to do in Motril

Escape to a slightly bigger city and experience a day trip from Almuñécar with many things to do in Motril Spain. Motril is the second-largest city in the Granada Province, with a population of more than 60,000. Yes, this isn’t a big city by most standards, but it is the biggest on the Costa Tropical. Many of us know it as the place to take care of our paperwork as foreigners, but there is so much more to the city. We want to share with you some of the things to do in Motril you can do as a day trip or combine with your trip to the Foreigner’s office. Read more.